Westfield Town Council reviews $330M Lord And Taylor Train Station redevelopment budget

During the Town of Westfield Council Meeting on May 27, 2025, significant discussions centered around the public infrastructure costs associated with the Lord and Taylor Train Station redevelopment project. A key concern raised by resident Carla Penacci highlighted the perceived inadequacies in the cost estimates for public improvements, questioning the transparency and accuracy of the financial projections.

Penacci pointed out that the cost breakdown for the project, which encompasses 14 to 17 items, lacks clarity. She emphasized the absence of detailed pro forma data that would typically outline both soft and hard costs, raising concerns about potential budget shortfalls as the project progresses. With nearly $1 million already spent on preliminary design work, she urged the council to provide a clearer financial roadmap to ensure that funds are allocated appropriately throughout the project's five-year timeline.

In response, town officials defended the budget, explaining that the figures presented are initial estimates subject to change as the project evolves. They assured the public that a review committee is in place to oversee decisions regarding materials and costs, emphasizing that the current budget reflects only the necessary expenditures for the public improvements.

The council also addressed the recent decision to reduce the bond authorization by $12 million, which Penacci questioned. Officials clarified that this reduction was based on prioritizing essential project components while still maintaining sufficient funding for public improvements. They noted that the total available funding, including contributions from the redeveloper and anticipated revenues, remains robust enough to cover projected costs.

As the meeting concluded, the council reiterated their commitment to transparency and effective management of the redevelopment project. They acknowledged the importance of public input and promised to continue engaging with residents as the project moves forward, ensuring that community needs and concerns are addressed throughout the redevelopment process.